A Level Chemistry OCR Practice Exam

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What does an anion refer to?

A positively charged ion
A negatively charged ion
A neutral atom
A molecule with equal electrons and protons

The correct answer is: A negatively charged ion

An anion refers to a negatively charged ion. This terminology derives from the roots of ion, where "anion" is used to describe the species that is attracted to the anode during electrolysis. When an atom gains one or more electrons, it acquires a negative charge resulting in the formation of an anion. In contrast, an atom that loses electrons becomes a cation, which carries a positive charge. This distinction is essential for understanding the behavior of ions in various chemical reactions and their respective roles in ionic compounds and solutions. The recognition that anions are formed through the gain of electrons is key in predicting how different substances will interact in terms of chemical bonding and reactivity.